Overview & Reviews

Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released, for model year 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success.

As an entire decade passed, the PT's utility and versatility remained intact, but the hype surrounding it faded. Such was the life of the PT Cruiser: a bright spot for Chrysler that was ultimately left alone while other practical yet smartly styled hatchback/wagons were introduced. From a used car purchase standpoint, however, the PT is still a respectable choice, especially considering that you'll have plenty of examples to choose from given its decade in production.

Most Recent Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was produced from 2001-'10 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005-'08 as a two-door convertible. Despite sharing its platform with the much-maligned Neon, it drove better than its DNA would suggest. It was also versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there was ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats could fold down or be removed completely, and a two-tiered luggage area further enhanced the PT's usability.

Throughout its run, the standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual and four-speed automatic were available. Acceleration was adequate, but fuel economy was poor for a small wagon. For 2003, Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model; it originally produced 215 horses and later 230 for 2006. It was discontinued for '07. Those desiring more power after that time could opt for a 180-hp turbo engine on certain trims from 2004-'09.

Besides a minor interior styling refresh for '06 and the gradual addition of more features such as an auxiliary audio jack or Bluetooth, the PT Cruiser was otherwise unchanged.

In road tests, our editors found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive. It handled adequately, and its overall ride quality was smooth. The Cruiser's utility also bettered that of many compact crossovers. The main downsides included the tepid acceleration of the base engine and poor fuel economy. In its later years, the PT's design also became stale compared to newer competing hatchbacks and wagons. As for the convertible, its fixed roll bar made access to the backseat tricky and top-up visibility was a perpetual issue. We weren't enamored with it at the time, but it could be a good pick if you're looking for an affordable and stylish drop top.

User Reviews:

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  Always Out Crusin - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Prior Ford Man - April 12 - 6:20 am

  After driving nothing but Fords all my life, I wanted some style, fun and power in my next car. The PT GT Cruiser gives me all I wanted. I love looking at Tara (my GTs name) and taking her on long drives here in CA. When I need power she gives it and when I need to haul supplies she accommodates with space to spare. Chrysler did a good job making a unique styled vehicle with power to match her great looks. There nothing on the road that looks like her except maybe an old Woody.

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  Very happy so far....800 miles - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By joeboy - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Solid car, no rattles or squeeks yet. Time will tell. I have the 5 speed. 1st gear is a little weak, but then it pulls pretty well. Very versatile. I would recommend it.

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  Great little car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dianna Livingston - March 29 - 4:30 pm

  My husband and I just purchases the car a little over a month ago. We are both very tall and there is ample head and leg room for both. The cruiser is very fun to drive. The car has a lot of style outside. It has a personality, and is more that just basic transportation. We get an average of 20 mpg in the city. Acceleration is fairly good for a 4 cl. So far we are glad we bought the car especially since we paid less that $15,000.00

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  Bad Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By e starling - March 28 - 10:00 am

  My Husband purchase a PT Curiser for me while on 2 weeks R&R. Want to asure his family would be in a safe car while he was deployed to Iraq. The car has been in the shop for repairs 4 times in less then 3 months. Due to " a glitch in the system". but this glitch cost me $56.00 and nothing was found or problem not fixed/ word of advise "never buy a Chrysler product"

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  Love My PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By emeraldeyedonyx - March 25 - 10:16 am

  I absolutely love my Pt cruiser. It is comfortable and stylish. I like the way it hugs the road. I have an anxiety of driving, but not in this car. I feel so safe. I have no regret about purchasing this car. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

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  Retirement Cruiser - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Robs PT - March 19 - 4:23 pm

  Always loved this model, but the early models were costly. My 07 4 speed auto was a real bargain. I got the silver base model which i think goes best with the interior colors. Rented one for a few days, while my van was in the shop and fell for this baby!

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  Great Car - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By sccoast - March 17 - 8:20 pm

  I bought this car with 32000 miles, now has over 98000. Many long trips, no problems. Hwy miles=25mpg. Problems,rear window seal came loose. Runing light indicator stays on. Fun to drive and good looking. Have towed boat and had car loaded with camping gear. Very versatile and roomy.

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  my 06 cruiser - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By cntrygurl - March 14 - 5:46 pm

  this is the best new car i have ever driven ,its not like the 05 saturn ion quad coupe 3 i had ,this cruiser has speed and i like how you sit up high, you can hear no wind noise or bumps in this car, the style is excellent and i love the interior its so retro, i feel like im back in good old days ,......

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  milten ruben - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By barry austin - March 14 - 10:00 am

  this is the best car i ever had it is fun to drive. it is fun to exellerate. you sit up hight. i just love it. yvonne austin

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  Very Pleased - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Andrea G - March 9 - 7:20 pm

  My husband and I purchased our PT Cruiser used with almost 60,000 miles on it in 2004.We have driven it a total of 29 months. It sat for about 9 months after being hit by a mid size SUV on the passengers side while riding in town. My three kids were in the car and everyone was safe.Today the car has almost 108,000 miles on it and drives great. We have had to replace the following items: rotors, brakes, calipers, tie rods and the radiator. The repairs were not as expensive as I had expected. I am often recieving compliments on the vehicle. I drive anywhere from 40-60 miles daily for work and couldnt have been happy this past summer with the price of gas being what it was